Public Information Office
210 S. McDonald St. Suite 636
McKinney, TX  75069

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Leigh Hornsby, Public Information Officer
972-548-4772
publicrelations@collincountytx.gov

May 28, 2004

Collin County Judge Ron Harris honored with William J. Pitstick Award,
Commissioner Jack Hatchell commended for a year of accomplishment as NCTCOG President

Collin County Judge Ron Harris honored with William J. Pitstick Award, Commissioner Jack Hatchell commended for a year of accomplishment as NCTCOG President

(McKinney, TX) - Collin County Judge Ron Harris was honored by the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) today with the prestigious William J. Pitstick Regional Excellence Award. Collin County Commissioner Jack Hatchell (Precinct 4) was also honored for his year of service as the organization's Executive Board President, during the NCTCOG 38th annual meeting in Arlington.

The William J. Pitstick Regional Excellence Award was established in 1993 to recognize the commitment to regionalism advocated by NCTCOG's former executive director Bill Pitstick. This award honors an individual who supports strong local government as the basis for democracy, who recognizes that urban challenges and concerns often cross jurisdictional boundaries, and who promotes coordination and cooperation among citizens and local elected officials.

"For years, Ron has worked with state, regional and federal leaders to enhance our mobility, improve our air quality and create an environment of cooperation," says Commissioner Hatchell. "He's worked hard for our county and all of north Texas."

During today's meeting, Commissioner Hatchell gave his final address as Executive Board President.

"Jack is a conscientious, far-sighted and dedicated gentleman whose regional knowledge has stood him in good stead during his tenure," says Tarrant County Judge Tom Vandergriff, who also serves as a NCTCOG member of the board of directors."

"I've certainly enjoyed my year with the Council of Governments. We've helped to open doors of communication among local governments, and we've created innovative ways of assisting officials throughout the region," says Commissioner Hatchell. "I look forward to helping the organization in the years to come."

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